When you picture receiving a massage, you typically picture a highly skilled Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) releasing knots and stresses in overworked muscles with their hands. But you can also get a massage using hot, smooth stones on your body. There are a lot of therapeutic advantages to hot stone massage.
If you’re curious to learn more about the various methods, you can provide your body with the necessary nutrients. What you should know is as follows.
The process
Typically, basalt is used for stones because it is high in iron and holds heat. They are volcanic stones that have been polished by hand or worn smooth by river water. They range in size from enormous back stones to tiny stones between toes.
The therapist typically applies pre-heated stones to specific locations on the back, legs, and space between the toes as part of the treatment. Other stones are then placed in the RMT’s hands and used to massage the body after the heat has warmed and relaxed the muscles. A typical session lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the area being worked on (neck, shoulders, etc.).
How will it help you
The stones’ weight and warmth are soothing, and they have a variety of healing effects, such as:
Decrease in aches and pains
Blood flow is increased, and circulation is improved.
relief from menstruation pain, headache, sciatica, joint pain, and muscle tightness
enhanced lymphatic circulation, your body’s natural detoxification process
improved sleep as a result of stress lowering cortisol levels
promotion of general calmness and a state of equilibrium
Is it safe? Is there anything that should worry you?
Hot Stone Massage is entirely risk-free. The RMT carefully monitors the stones’ temperature using a thermometer and forearm.
There are a few potential side effects to be mindful of. Increased circulation and redness are normal and can continue for up to 12 hours. This is a result of the heat treatment. The intensity of skin irritation or redness will vary depending on your skin type.
Hot Stone Massage encourages the release of toxins from deep within your muscles, which could lead to side effects like fatigue, nausea, headaches, frequent urination, and dizziness for a few days after your treatment. These negative effects can be reduced by drinking lots of water. Keep track of how your body responds to the medication. Avoid heat for 12 to 24 hours following treatment if you discover it is susceptible to it. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise during the first 24 hours as well. Give your body the time and space it needs to unwind and rest as it cleans itself.